Arizona State Secures Key Win Over Utah to Boost Tournament Case

The Sun Devils defeated the Utes 71-61 in a wire-to-wire victory, keeping their NCAA Tournament hopes alive.

Feb. 12, 2026 at 1:39am

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The Arizona State Sun Devils defeated the Utah Utes 71-61 on Wednesday night at Desert Financial Arena in Tempe. The win was crucial for the Sun Devils' NCAA Tournament hopes, as they are considered a "last four in team" and needed the victory to strengthen their tournament profile. Arizona State led for most of the game, taking a 33-30 lead into halftime and then extending their advantage in the second half to secure the win.

Why it matters

This victory is a significant boost for Arizona State's NCAA Tournament chances. The Sun Devils have been on the bubble for much of the season, and this win over a fellow Pac-12 contender Utah helps solidify their case for an at-large bid. With just a few weeks left in the regular season, every win is crucial for teams on the tournament bubble.

The details

Arizona State jumped out to an early 15-11 lead in the first quarter and maintained a slim advantage throughout the game. The Sun Devils were led by strong performances from forwards Heloisa Carrera and McKinna Brackens, as well as a late scoring surge from guard Gabby Elliott. Arizona State's defense and three-point shooting also played a key role in the victory.

  • The Sun Devils took a 33-30 lead into halftime.
  • Arizona State extended their lead to 52-43 in the third quarter.
  • The Sun Devils held on to their lead in the fourth quarter to secure the 71-61 win.

The players

Heloisa Carrera

An Arizona State forward who scored 12 points, grabbed 5 rebounds, and dished out 2 assists in the win.

McKinna Brackens

An Arizona State forward who recorded 14 points, 6 assists, and 3 blocks in the game.

Gabby Elliott

An Arizona State guard who led the team with 19 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 steals.

Lani White

A Utah player who scored 12 points in the first half to keep the Utes in the game.

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What they’re saying

“This win was crucial for our tournament hopes. We knew we needed to come out and take care of business against a tough Utah team, and I'm proud of the way our team stepped up and got the job done.”

— Bobby Hurley, Arizona State Head Coach

What’s next

Arizona State will hit the road for two key games, first facing the Arizona Wildcats on Saturday and then taking on Iowa State on February 18. The Sun Devils likely need to win three or more of their remaining games to secure an NCAA Tournament berth.

The takeaway

This victory keeps Arizona State firmly in the NCAA Tournament conversation, as they continue to fight for an at-large bid. The Sun Devils showed their resilience and ability to win a close game against a quality opponent, which will be crucial as they make their final push for the Big Dance.